Nasal congestion can make breathing difficult, affect sleep quality, and cause discomfort in daily activities. Methods such as nasal decongestant sprays or steam inhalation can be used to provide temporary relief from nasal congestion. However, it is important to treat the underlying cause. It is recommended that people with chronic nasal congestion consult an otolaryngologist, as in some cases surgery or other treatment options may be required.
What causes nasal congestion?
Nasal congestion can occur for many different reasons. It is important to consult an otolaryngologist to identify the underlying problem causing nasal congestion. Appropriate treatment methods will be determined depending on the underlying problem causing nasal congestion. Causes of nasal congestion:
- Cold and flu: One of the most common causes is a cold or flu infection. These viral infections can affect the nasal and sinus cavities, causing nasal congestion.
- Sinusitis: Sinusitis occurs as a result of inflammation of the sinus cavities. Swelling of the sinuses and accumulation of mucus can lead to nasal congestion.
- Allergic rhinitis: Allergic rhinitis due to allergic reactions can lead to nasal congestion and runny nose. Sensitivity to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander can cause this condition.
- Nasal polyps: Nasal polyps are small, soft bumps that form in the nasal and sinus cavities. As they grow, they can cause nasal congestion and difficulty breathing.
- Curvature of the nasal septum: The nasal septum is a cartilage and bone structure that divides the nose into two compartments. Curvature or deformation can lead to nasal congestion.
- Hormonal changes: Nasal congestion may occur in some people as a result of pregnancy or hormonal changes.
- Medicines: Some drugs can cause nasal congestion with long-term use.
- Other factors: Environmental factors such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, cold or dry air can trigger nasal congestion.
Why is the nose often blocked?
There are several potential causes when the nose is often stuffed up. Sensitivity to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold fungi or pet dander can cause nasal congestion. This condition is called allergic rhinitis and is often accompanied by sneezing, runny nose, and itching. Allergic rhinitis, as well as swelling of the Sinuses and mucus accumulation can cause nasal congestion. It should be noted that sinusitis can be acute or chronic. Other than allergic rhinitis and sinusitis, the causes of frequent blockage of the nose may be:
- As nasal polyps grow, they can lead to nasal congestion.
- Curvature or deformation of the nasal septum can cause nasal congestion.
- Hormonal changes can lead to nasal congestion.
- Long-term use of some drugs can cause nasal congestion.
- Environmental factors such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, cold or dry air can cause nasal congestion.
Any one or more of these factors can lead to frequent occurrence of nasal congestion. If you are experiencing persistent or bothersome nasal congestion, it is recommended that you be examined by an otolaryngologist. The specialist can identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.
What is good for nasal congestion?
People who often suffer from nasal congestion, “What causes a stuffy nose?” may pose questions. There are several methods to relieve nasal congestion. Moisturizing your nose and sinuses is an effective way to relieve nasal congestion. Steam inhalation, humidifiers, or taking a hot shower can also reduce congestion. It can also be helpful to clear the nasal passages and unclog using nasal sprays. Things that cause nasal congestion:
- If nasal congestion is caused by allergic reactions, it may be helpful to use antihistamines or allergy medications. These drugs can relieve allergic symptoms and reduce nasal congestion.
- Applying warm compresses to the nose and sinus area can help relieve congestion. The warmth helps thin the mucus and open the nasal passages.
- Some natural methods can be good for nasal congestion. For example, gargling with salt water, inhaling rosemary oil or peppermint oil vapors can relieve congestion.
- Drinking enough water can reduce nasal congestion by regulating your body’s mucus production. Make sure to drink plenty of water.
- You can make steam inhalation by adding a few drops of rosemary oil, peppermint oil or eucalyptus oil to boiling water. This can help open up nasal congestion and ease breathing.
- You can use a saline solution to relieve nasal congestion. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to 1 glass of warm water and mix. You can use this solution to inhale or use a nasal spray to clear the nasal passages.
- Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can relieve nasal congestion. You can consume fresh ginger slices as a tea or prepare ginger tea.
- Garlic has a natural decongestant property and can relieve nasal congestion. Crush a clove of garlic and inhale its scent or add it to your meals.
- Onions naturally contain volatile compounds that have mucus-thinning and nasal-clogging effects. Chop the onion and put it with you to relieve your nasal congestion.
- Taking a hot shower or taking a steam bath can open up a stuffy nose. The hot steam moistens the nasal passages and thins the mucus.
These methods, which we have listed to open nasal congestion, are some of the methods that can be applied at home. However, if nasal congestion is persistent or severe, or if there is an underlying health problem, it is important to consult an otolaryngologist. The specialist will assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment options.
What is good for sinusitis and nasal congestion?
Sinusitis is a condition in which air-filled spaces called sinuses become inflamed as a result of infection or inflammation. The sinuses are located in the facial bones and skull and are connected by channels that open into the nasal cavity. Normally, the sinuses are filled with air, moistening and warming the nasal cavity. However, due to infection, allergic reactions, or other reasons, mucus buildup and swelling may occur in the sinuses. Some methods that can be good for sinusitis and nasal congestion are:
- Using saline solutions or saline sprays can be effective in clearing the nasal passages and draining mucus from the sinuses.
- Applying warm compresses to the sinus area can reduce swelling in the sinuses and relieve nasal congestion. A warm compress can help relieve the infection by increasing blood circulation.
- Using a humidifier steam source or using humidifiers will help moisten the sinuses. This can relieve nasal congestion and make mucus flow more easily.
- You can use pain relievers or fever reducers recommended by your doctor to relieve symptoms such as headache or fever due to sinusitis. However, it is important to consult your doctor before using drugs.
- Drinking enough water keeps your body hydrated and promotes thinning of mucus. This can help relieve nasal congestion.
- It is important to get enough rest and sleep during sinusitis so that your body can focus on the healing process. Rest can help strengthen your immune system.
Sinusitis and nasal congestion can sometimes be an infection condition that may require antibiotic treatment. That’s why it’s important to see a doctor if your symptoms are severe or prolonged. Your doctor will evaluate the situation and recommend appropriate treatment options.